Outdoor Lighting in Milwaukee, WI (2026)
2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
Milwaukee does not have a comprehensive dark-sky ordinance. Outdoor lighting is regulated primarily through the zoning code (Chapter 295) which sets standards for commercial and industrial lighting to minimize glare onto residential properties. There is no citywide requirement for International Dark-Sky Association-compliant fixtures. However, the city's LED streetlight conversion program installed shielded, downward-directed fixtures that reduce light pollution compared to older high-pressure sodium lights.
Milwaukee Dark Sky & Outdoor Lighting Rules
Few RestrictionsLight Trespass
Milwaukee addresses light trespass through its zoning code (Chapter 295) and nuisance provisions. Commercial and industrial lighting must be designed to minimize spillover onto adjacent residential properties. The Department of Neighborhood Services can issue orders to correct lighting that creates a nuisance. While there are no specific footcandle limits for residential-to-residential light trespass, excessive lighting that interferes with neighboring property use can be addressed through the general nuisance provisions of the code.
Milwaukee Light Trespass Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Milwaukee County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Milwaukee city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in Milwaukee County →